Tennis Rules Explained: Deuce (40‑40)

Ever found yourself watching a match and wondered what the fuss is about when the score hits 40‑40? That moment is called deuce, and it’s the turning point of many games. At Erdington Tennis Hub we break down deuce so you can follow every swing without getting confused.

How Deuce Works

When both players have won three points each, the score is tied at 40‑40. The next point doesn’t end the game – it gives the winner an "advantage". If the player with advantage wins the following point, the game is over. If they lose it, the score goes back to deuce. In short, you need two points in a row after deuce to claim the game.

This back‑and‑forth can happen many times in a single game. Each time the score returns to deuce, the tension ramps up. That’s why you’ll hear crowds get louder and players focus harder once the tie hits 40‑40.

Winning the Game After Deuce

To seal the win, a player must first reach advantage and then clinch the next point. Think of it as a mini‑battle inside the larger game. If you’re serving, use a strong first serve to grab the advantage quickly. If you’re returning, aim for a deep, low return to force an error.

Coaching tips: stay calm, keep your footwork tight, and focus on one point at a time. It’s easy to get anxious at deuce, but remembering the two‑point rule helps you stay grounded.

When you finally win the game after a long deuce exchange, the victory feels extra sweet. That’s the beauty of tennis – a single point can swing the whole momentum.

At Erdington Tennis Hub we encourage players of all levels to practice deuce scenarios during drills. Set up a mini‑match where you start at deuce and race to win two points in a row. It builds confidence for real match play.

Understanding deuce also helps you follow tournament commentary. Commentators often explain the "advantage in" or "advantage out" terms – they simply refer to which player is one point away from winning the game.

So the next time you see 40‑40 on the scoreboard, you’ll know exactly what’s happening. It’s not the end; it’s a chance for both players to prove who can handle pressure. Keep an eye on the advantage, watch the rallies, and enjoy the drama that deuce brings to the court.

Ready to test your knowledge? Grab a partner, head to the nearest court, and play a few games starting at deuce. You’ll feel the rush and understand why this rule is a cornerstone of tennis scoring.